Responding to a reporter, President Donald Trump on Friday addressed whether he would consider a pardon for Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is on trial in New York City on federal charges of sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution.
When asked by Fox News‘ Peter Doocy if he would pardon Diddy, the president responded in part: “Well, nobody’s asked. You had to be the one to ask, Peter. I know people are thinking about it. First of all, I’d look at what’s happening.
“I haven’t spoken to him in years. He really liked me a lot.”
Why It Matters
Trump has issued a long list of pardons since his return to the White House, including those convicted over the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol Building, rapper NBS YoungBoy and reality stars Todd and Julie Chrisley.
President Donald Trump speaks during a news conference with Elon Musk in the Oval Office of the White House on May 30, 2025, in Washington.
President Donald Trump speaks during a news conference with Elon Musk in the Oval Office of the White House on May 30, 2025, in Washington.
Associated Press
What To Know
Trump was speaking during a press conference marking the end of Elon Musk‘s time within his administration. Doocy asked Trump about Diddy, referring to the pair being friends at one time.
Trump said he had not followed the star’s trial very closely, but that he knew it had received a lot of coverage. The president said that while he and Diddy had been close at one time, the relationship had “busted up” once he got into politics.
Trump has been photographed with Diddy numerous times over the years, mainly in the 1990s and early 2000s. In 2012, Trump vouched for Diddy’s character, calling him a “friend” and a “good guy” during an episode of his reality show Celebrity Apprentice.
Sean P. Diddy Combs, Donald Trump and Melania Trump, on March 11, 2005.
Sean P. Diddy Combs, Donald Trump and Melania Trump, on March 11, 2005.
Johnny Nunez/WireImage via Getty Images
Diddy has also shown support for Trump over the years, with Trump appearing at a few of the mogul’s parties and events in New York City.
“If I think somebody was mistreated, whether they like me or don’t like me, it wouldn’t have any impact,” Trump said on Friday about how he would weigh issuing a pardon.
Some of Trump’s recent pardons have been controversial, including of rapper NBA YoungBoy, who had been arrested multiple times since 2014 for a range of offenses including robbery and attempted murder.
The president said earlier this week that he would consider pardoning those convicted in the plot to kidnap Democratic Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a move she said she would speak with Trump about.
What People Are Saying
Political influencer Harry Sisson, on X, formerly Twitter: “Trump just REFUSED to rule out giving a pardon to Diddy. Yes, you read that correctly. What on earth is wrong with this guy???”
What Happens Next
Diddy’s trial in New York City continues. Proceedings are expected to last eight to 10 weeks. Combs is facing life in prison if convicted.
Update 5/30/25, 3:32 p.m. ET: This story was updated with additional information.